Some of the content on this website requires JavaScript to be enabled in your web browser to function as intended. While the website is still usable without JavaScript, it should be enabled to enjoy the full interactive experience.

THIS WEEK'S MESSAGE FROM ACTING PRESIDENT GERALDINE JONES

This
week it has been my great pleasure to meet informally with a number of Cal U
students and their families.

On
Move-In Day, during New Student Orientation and throughout the first week of
school, I’ve talked to, and listened to, the people our University was created
to serve.

It
has been time well spent. Over and over, I’ve been reminded of all that is good
about Cal U. I’ve returned to my office refreshed, and with a renewed
commitment to our University and its future.

Three
themes emerged clearly from these conversations:

— Cal U families care. Moms and dads, grandparents and siblings are rooting
for our students to succeed. Each of our Cal U families has made an investment,
both financial and emotional, in their student’s future. They are pleased to
know that we are committed to offering both a high-quality education and a
strong student support system.

Higher
education is truly a family affair. I encountered many parents who are just as
excited as their children about joining our Cal U community!

— Our student body is diverse. This week I spoke with students from all corners of
Pennsylvania, and from points far beyond our borders. They’ve come to our University
from rural communities, small towns and big cities.

Each
student arrives at Cal U with a singular background and a unique set of
expectations. This diversity contributes to a rich and vibrant campus
atmosphere. It also may create challenges when we meet people who look, act or
think differently. There is much we can learn from one
another when we interact with civility and respect.

— Our students are glad to be here. This week I met many, many students who are
enthusiastic about Cal U and looking forward to a productive academic year.
They are especially eager to make new friends or reconnect with their
professors or classmates.

Both
new and returning students have mentioned the warm “Cal U welcome” they
received when they came to campus. This friendly, welcoming atmosphere makes
our University special, I’m told — and as a former Cal U student and a longtime
employee, I heartily agree.

Let
me close this week by thanking everyone who has worked hard to get the fall semester
off to a strong start.

(Please look for
President Jones’ next message to the Cal U community on Sept. 14.)